Note: This is a seattlepi.com reader blog. It is not written or edited by the P-I. The authors are solely responsible for content. E-mail us at newmedia@seattlepi.com if you consider a post inappropriate.

What Makes a Good Therapy Pet?

I get emails and calls weekly from people who want to learn about therapy service as they believe
their dog would make an ideal therapy dog. I love these calls as therapy service is near and dear to my
heart so I am more than happy to guide the caller towards their goal.
c Diane Rich 2014

Program Options
Some pets are better suited to visit residents in a long term care or retirement facility, some pets may do well visiting patients in a hospital environment or at a facility that serves people battling a specific disease. Some teams are well suited for programs geared towards children. Years ago there were not as many choices as there are today so if you pass your therapy test, you are sure to find a program that speaks to you and is a great match for your team’s talent.

Does Your Canine Have the Right StuffI believe a good therapy dog is born, not made. It is not enough the dog loves the family, friends of the
family and familiar people living in the neighborhood. And, it is not enough the dog just tolerates
the love and attention from strangers. This well trained and social dog must adore strangers and enjoy
that adoration and close contact in a calm manner.

Point to Ponder if you are interested in this amazing volunteer opportunity1. The dog, actually the team which is defined as handler and pet must pass a standardized test given by an evaluator representing a therapy organization. Once the team passes the test, the handler then must register with that organization.

2. The dog must perform basic obedience skills on leash which include; walk on a loose leash
sit, stay, down and come. All test exercises must be performed without using a treat.
There are other exercises the team must perform that helps the evaluator observe general behavior
of the dog and handling skills of the owner in specific circumstances that simulate situations that may be
experienced during an actual therapy visit. Most of the organizations list all these required
exercises online for your review.

3. The various therapy organizations usually list their approved collars or harnesses on their website.
If your dog wears a pinch collar which is not an approved collar for any of the therapy organizations
it is best to retrain your dog on an approved collar or harness before taking your test.

4. The dog cannot show any sign of aggression or reactivity towards dogs, adults or children

5. The dog must not over-react to noises.

6. Some of the people the dog visits may be in a wheelchair use a walker or cane or have an
unsteady gait. The dog must be calm and relaxed around any type of medical equipment.
There are some dogs that will not walk on a slippery floor and if this is the case, your
dog may have some challenges in certain facilities or at schools.
c Diane Rich 2014

7. The handler must be proactive to ensure the visits are safe for the pet and people s/he visits

8. The dog must have a solid “leave it’ so they can pass by a food cart or medical cart. The dog
will need to ignore a patient’s stuffed teddy bear, a plate of uneaten food or used Kleenex within reach.

9. The dog should not lick, jump on or lunge at people or be overwhelmed if surrounded
by many people wanting to love him or her

c Diane Rich 2014

10. The dog should be very comfortable with a stranger sticking their face in that dog’s face or
giving that dog a big, loving hug.
c Diane Rich 2014

Do You Have the Right Stuff

The dog is only half of the team as the handler plays a critical part in the success of that team
and the success of each visit. Therapy service is not an activity where a handler spectates
and lets it all happen.

1. That handler must be a proactive member of that team at all times and be an advocate for the pet

2. If you are intimidated or uncomfortable talking with strangers or talking with someone who is sick,
then this may be something to work on as it is important to help create a nice meet and greet with your
dog and the interested stranger.

One of the major therapy organizations approves species other than dogs. So, if your cat, llama
or mini horse has the right stuff you will absolutely put smiles on the faces of anyone you visit.
c Diane Rich 2014

I would encourage you to do some research on therapy service. It is an addictive activity that
will make your heart smile and your dog’s tail wag. Please feel free to contact me if you
have questions or want more information on therapy service.

Note: This is a seattlepi.com reader blog. It is not written or edited by the P-I. The authors are solely responsible for content. E-mail us at newmedia@seattlepi.com if you consider a post inappropriate.